The Guinness World Records currently recognizes the variety ‘Empress Wu’ as the world’s largest hosta. Developed by hybridizer Brian and Virginia Skaggs of Walters Gardens, Inc. in Zeeland, Michigan, ‘Empress Wu’ can grow to impressive dimensions. Its massive, deeply veined leaves can reach up to 28 inches long and 25 inches wide, creating a striking presence in the garden. This variety is prized not only for its size but also for its bold, textured foliage and tolerance of various growing conditions.
The Hosta ‘T-Rex’ is another large hosta cultivar, although it doesn’t hold the current Guinness World Record for the largest hosta. ‘T-Rex’ is known for its immense size and impressive foliage. Its leaves are deeply veined and heavily textured, giving them a rugged appearance reminiscent of reptilian skin, which is fitting for its name.
‘T-Rex’ can grow to be quite large, with mature plants reaching heights of up to 36 inches and spreads of around 72 inches or more. The leaves themselves can measure up to 18 inches long and 13 inches wide, making this hosta a substantial presence in any garden or landscape.
This cultivar thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. With its bold foliage and robust growth habit, Hosta ‘T-Rex’ makes a dramatic statement as a focal point or specimen plant in shaded areas of the garden.
